Homecoming 2008 promises tradition
by Laura Skulman, posted Oct. 23, 2008
“Come on Home Tigers!” And the tradition begins. The MU Homecoming football game has certainly become a celebrated tradition that is highly anticipated for its competitive decorations, skits and other traditions used to prepare for the big game.
The rivalry between MU and KU is the oldest west of the Mississippi River. This annual game was played in Kansas City, Mo., until 1911, when conference rules changed to require all intercollegiate football games to be played on university campuses. “Come Home,” said 1911 MU football coach C. L. Brewer, according to MU archives; and so the MU “Homecoming” tradition began. Now, the Homecoming games are played against other teams, not just KU. This year Mizzou will play Colorado on Saturday, Oct. 25.
While Homecoming tradition has spread across the country, MU still boasts the largest student-run Homecoming in the nation. The annual event includes a parade, talent competition, tailgate, campus decorating competition and numerous other activities. Kids and parents can go out and see their town and campus filled with fun decorations and spirit. All of these activities are centered on an annual theme. This year’s theme is Strength in Stripes. The theme for “pomp” boards and decorations is Pixar movies.
“We really get into it, not just for the competition, but for the fun and excitement of tradition,” said Dan Waxman, a sophomore MU Greek student.
Homecoming participants also take part in decorating the district, making downtown Columbia come alive with contagious Tiger spirit. Greek Life takes great pride in Homecoming week, with competitions in house decorations, and homecoming–related skits, but they also raise record amounts of money for charities during this time. According the BlueCross, BlueShield Web site, last year the MU Homecoming blood drive raised more than 4,100 units of blood, and participants are aiming for even more this time around.
Not only are fraternities and sororities a big part of the Homecoming celebration, but so are many other organizations on campus. In 2006, the CAFNR Student Council was highly successful competing in the campus organizations category. They took first place in the blood drive and float competitions, and first overall for campus organizations.
With this year’s theme “Strength in Stripes,” the Homecoming tradition will continue. While Mizzou has one of the top teams in the nation, Saturday’s game will be full of excitement as the Tigers fight for victory against Colorado.
